Take a journey through the highlands on a full-day excursion that begins when you cross the Moray Firth from Inverness. Travel to the scenic Black Isle and then on to the beautiful estuary of the Cromarty Firth. The estuary is one of the largest areas of unspoiled mudflats in the U.K. and an important staging post for waders and wildfowl as they migrate south. Step back in time in the sleepy fishing village of Cromarty. See the quaint cottages, crow-stepped houses, and grand sandstone mansions. This attractive town was once the major port for the north of Scotland and it has retained its character to this day, thanks to careful conservation work. From Cromarty you’ll travel through spectacular scenery to Rosemarkie and Fortrose. These picturesque villages are separated by Chanonry Point, which juts out into the Moray Firth. The Firth is home to a community of some 130 bottlenose dolphins and Chanonry Point is a popular vantage point for spotting these amazing mammals. Continue on the drive to the Muir of Ord where, if you wish, you can visit Glen Ord Malt Whisky Distillery for a behind-the-scenes tour followed by a tasting of the end product. (This is optional and the price of admission is not included in the tour package.) The final visit of the day is to the little village of Drumnadrochit, which lies close to the banks of mysterious Loch Ness. Learn about the loch and its famous resident at the fascinating Official Loch Ness Exhibition Center. As you return to Inverness along the banks of the loch keep a careful watch, just in case the monster makes an appearance!